TravelersReference
Expiry Statuses
Passport expiry status definitions and thresholds
Expiry Statuses
Complete reference for passport expiry statuses and their implications.
Status Definitions
| Status | Days Until Expiry | Booking Impact | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valid | 180+ days | None | None |
| Warning | 60-180 days | Informational warning | Plan renewal |
| Critical | 0-60 days | Strong warning, may block | Urgent renewal |
| Expired | Past date | Blocked | Cannot use for travel |
Passports in warning or critical status may not meet the 6-month validity requirement for most destinations. Check requirements before booking.
Status Thresholds
Passport expiry is divided into four zones based on days remaining: Expired (less than 0), Critical (0-60 days), Warning (60-180 days), and Valid (180+ days).
Threshold Values
| Threshold | Value | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Critical threshold | 60 days | Urgent action needed |
| Warning threshold | 180 days | Plan renewal (6-month rule) |
| Expired | 0 days | Cannot travel |
Why 180 Days?
The 180-day (6-month) warning threshold exists because:
- Most countries require 6 months validity beyond travel dates
- This is a standard international travel requirement
- Airlines may refuse boarding if passport validity is insufficient
- Visa applications often require 6+ months validity
Calculation Formula
The system calculates expiry status as follows:
| Condition | Result |
|---|---|
| Days until expiry < 0 | Expired |
| Days until expiry < 60 | Critical |
| Days until expiry < 180 | Warning |
| Days until expiry >= 180 | Valid |
Booking Behavior
Flight Bookings
| Status | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Valid | ✅ Proceed without warnings |
| Warning | ℹ️ Show informational message |
| Critical | ⚠️ Show strong warning, user confirmation |
| Expired | ❌ Block selection, show error |
Hotel Bookings
| Status | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Valid | ✅ Proceed without warnings |
| Warning | ℹ️ Minimal impact |
| Critical | ⚠️ Minimal impact |
| Expired | ⚠️ May allow, depends on hotel |
Country-Specific Requirements
Different destinations have different validity requirements:
6-Month Rule Countries
| Region | Examples |
|---|---|
| Middle East | UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman |
| Southeast Asia | Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam |
| East Asia | China, Japan, South Korea |
| Americas | Brazil, Mexico |
3-Month Rule Countries
| Region | Examples |
|---|---|
| Europe | UK, Ireland, Switzerland |
| Schengen | Beyond expected stay |
Always verify the specific passport validity requirements for your destination. Requirements can change.
Status Transition
Passport status changes automatically as time passes:
Best Practices
- Monitor Warning Status — Begin renewal when passport enters warning (180 days)
- Don't Wait for Critical — Renewal can take time; start early
- Check Destination Requirements — Some countries need more than 6 months
- Multiple Passports — Use passport with longest validity for travel
- Regular Audits — Dashboard admins should regularly review expiring passports